When cabinets look dated but the layout still works, there are three common paths forward, and they land in very different places on cost and disruption.
Cabinet painting
Doors and boxes are cleaned, de-glossed, and sprayed in a new color. This is the least expensive and least disruptive option, and it works well when the cabinet boxes themselves are structurally sound — solid wood or good-quality ply, no water damage, doors that still close properly. It's a cosmetic fix, not a structural one.
Cabinet refacing
The boxes stay in place, but doors and drawer fronts are replaced with new ones, and exposed box surfaces get a matching veneer. This costs more than painting but less than full replacement, and it's a good middle ground when you want a different door style, not just a different color, but the layout and boxes are still fine.
Full replacement
Everything comes out and new cabinetry goes in. This is the right call when boxes are damaged, the layout needs to change, or you want features the existing cabinets can't accommodate. It's also the most expensive and time-consuming option by a wide margin.
How to decide
If you like the layout and the boxes are in good shape, painting is usually the best value. If you want a different door style or slightly updated hardware placement, refacing bridges the gap. Replacement makes sense mainly when something structural needs to change.
Learn more on our cabinet painting page, or reach out for a free assessment of which option fits your kitchen.